Greek Eggplant Meatballs (Melitzanokeftedes)

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If you love eggplant as much as I do, you will become obsessed with these little nuggets of veggie love. Its got that crunchy shell and inside that cheesy center. It is like nothing else you will try. If you can’t get your hands on some Kasseri cheese, that’s okay; just use cubed mozzarella or gouda.

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Greek Eggplant Meatballs (Melitzanokeftedes)

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5 from 2 votes

Servings: 19

Prep Time: 20 mins

Cook Time: 10 mins

Total Time: 30 mins

Ingredients 

• 2 tbs olive oil
• 1/2 red onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large eggplant, peeled + diced
• salt and pepper to taste
• 1¼ cup breadcrumbs (divided)
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten
• 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
• chili pepper flakes, to taste
• 1/2 cup Kasseri cheese, cubed, (or mozzarella or gouda)

Instructions

• In a large deep skillet, heat your oil. Add in your onion and saute for 2 minutes. Stir in the garlic for 30 seconds. Add in your eggplant and toss to coat. If the mixture is too dry, add in another tablespoon of olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook to soften for about 5 minutes. Remove from pan to a paper towel lined platter to cool slightly and drain any excess oil.
• In a large bowl, combine the eggplant mixture, 1 CUP breadcrumbs, eggs, parsley, chili flakes, salt and pepper to taste. Form your medium sized balls and then an indent int the center to insert two small cubes of Kaseri cheese. Bring the mixture around the cheese to cover and close off the cheese.
• Roll the balls in 1/4 cup breadcrumbs to give them that crunchy exterior. Wipe down the pan you used before and heat 1 tablespoon olive oil. Working in two batches, add half the balls and cook for 4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.

Notes

If you’re looking for a dip to pair with this, definitely try some marinara sauce.

Nutrition

Calories: 75kcal | Carbohydrates: 7g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 4g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 0.002g | Cholesterol: 21mg | Sodium: 120mg | Potassium: 90mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 138IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 66mg | Iron: 1mg

Author: Stella